The Hajj only becomes valid when the day of Wuqoof is observed. It is on this day Muslims believe their major and minor sins are forgiven. If they miss this day, their pilgrimage is pointless. Today, they will ask Allah for mercy and forgiveness as they stand or sit near Mount Arafat. Muslims believe that as they finish this day they are cleansed of sin which also brings freedom from shame. At sunset, a cannon sounds. Pilgrims leave Mount Arafat to go to Muzdalifah, an open level place where they sleep or stay up all night under the stars.
Key Scriptures to Pray
“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 “He [Jesus Christ] commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he [Jesus] is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” Acts 10:42-43
Going before the Father
- Muslim pilgrims long for their major and minor sins to be removed from their lives. John the Baptist’s words cry out that Jesus takes away the sins of the world. Pray that Muslims would not feel they have a cleansed heart until they accept and delight in the finished work of Christ.
- God appointed Jesus to be judge of the living and the dead. Everyone who believes in the Lord Jesus Christ receives forgiveness of sins. Pray that the truth of the Lord Jesus’ life, death and resurrection would penetrate the hearts of longing Muslims. Pray they will be drawn to the Giver of Life and believe in Him to receive the forgiveness of sins through His name alone.
- Pray that as many Muslims seek to stay up all night to pray, they would have dreams and visions of the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 2:17). Ask God for an open heaven so that the ones who are genuinely seeking an encounter with God will meet Him.
